[adsense250itp]Ubisoft has released a new trailer for the upcoming Splinter Cell Blacklist which shows off some of the advantages for the Wii U version of the game; most notably how the GamePad is an essential tool in the player’s arsenal.

In Splinter Cell Blacklist, players will take on the role of series protagonist Sam Fisher as he leads the newly formed Fourth Echelon unit. Sam and his crew must stop an international terrorist organization which is responsible for an escalating series of attacks on U.S. interests. Blacklist features many enhancements to the stealth gameplay mechanics that popularized the Splinter Cell series. It also gives players the freedom to take a more action-oriented approach, trading silence for deadly force.

When Blacklist’s Wii U features were originally detailed, they were summed up in a brief video without much context. Ubisoft’s newest trailer actually shows gameplay from the Wii U version and how the GamePad is used during a typical mission. First and foremost, the GamePad’s touchscreen acts as an inventory display for all of Sam’s weapons and gadgets. Simply tapping on an item will select it; this method seems to work more effectively and quickly because there is no cycling through a menu or even having to pause gameplay. Another neat feature is the ability to toggle lethal and non-lethal takedowns. By tapping an icon in the upper right-hand corner of the touchscreen, Sam’s actions in close quarters combat will change. Hopefully the icon can’t accidentally be tapped and lead to incorrect methods of taking out enemies.

Splinter Cell Blacklist on the Wii U

Because the video focuses on the stealth approach, it looks as if the GamePad will be essential in helping out players who wish to stay quiet. Sam’s Snake Cam is able to peek under doorways and give players a look at the surroundings. The GamePad’s screen is the camera’s view and players can also mark enemies by simply tapping on them. The same approach can be used with the Sonar Goggles which makes enemies appear in red. Moving the GamePad will change the direction of both the Snake Cam and Sonar Goggles. Players will also use the GamePad to control Sam’s Tri-Rotor, a stealthy copter that can stun enemies or scan the environment. The Tri-Rotor actually flies according to how the player moves the GamePad, tilting or turning in whatever direction moved.

Since gadgets and tagging enemies are essential for players who want to make a stealth approach, the GamePad looks like a great extension. Acting as a second screen capable of touch input makes the GamePad seem like another device in Sam’s arsenal, except it is in the player’s hands. It’s also worth noting that the Wii U version of Blacklist looks exceptionally good. Character models look great especially Sam when he is in action; environments also look very realistic. When compared to the other console versions, the Wii U’s GamePad definitely gives Blacklist an edge over the competition.

Splinter Cell Blacklist will be released on Aug. 20 for the Wii U, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Ben Sheene

Ben is from Kentucky where he originally began playing games (an activity he still continues to this day). With a love for writing he graduated from Centre College with a BA in English. He recently moved to California to pursue whatever future endeavors were there. A passion for music, gaming, blogging, and existing keeps him up at night and crafts him into the person he is today.